In California, a couple cannot obtain legal status as a married couple my merely living together as man and wife. California does not recognize "common law marriages". However, in very limited circumstances, the court may declare the party or parties to have the status of a putative spouse if a determination is made that a marriage is void or voidable and the court finds that either party or both parties believed in good faith that the marriage was valid.

 

To dissolve the marital status, you must obtain a judgment of dissolution. In California a judgment for dissolution of marriage is not final until six months have passed from the date of service of a copy of summons and petition, or from the date of appearance of the respondent, whichever occurs first. However, your divorce does not automatically become final after six months. You must file certain documents with the court to request your divorce Judgment. Until the judgment of dissolution is issued you are still legally married.